By Oregon Small Business Association,
Though 2015 has witnessed key Oregon companies being acquired by out-of-state enterprises, relocating elsewhere or reducing jobs, a number of other companies have expanded operations. Breweries, sports apparel, and a range of technology-related businesses have made significant investments in Oregon to strengthen their presence in Portland or other parts of the state.
Facebook to hire 150. The social media giant is moving forward with plans for its third and largest data center in Prineville. Upwards of 150 or more jobs are likely to follow to Central Oregon.
GuideSpark eyes 200 new employees. The technology firm has developed a video platform for HR and is expanding its content team in Portland, which was chosen over several other locations considered for growth. To fulfill the terms of its loan from the state, GuideSpark must hire an additional 200 employees. Timing on the hiring isn’t known, but the company has double or tripled in size each of the last three years.
Breweries. North Rim Brewery in Bend, Deschutes Brewery also in Bend, Three Creeks Brewing in Sisters, Widmer Brewing in Portland are just a few breweries that have all significantly expanded operations and added jobs in 2015.
Discovery to hire 150. The Vancouver-based (Portland Metro) company recently acquired iProfile, its primary competitor. The company’s goal is to expand its international presence as a leading intelligence and research tool for IT and, more recently, sales and marketing departments. One of the region’s fastest growing companies, Discovery.org anticipates hiring 150 new employees this year.
SurveyMonkey. SurveyMonkey has recently expanded its office footprint by moving to two floors in Portland’s U.S. Bancorp Building. In addition to moving 80 employees to the location, at least 35 new jobs have either been created or in the process of being added. The office space can accommodate a little more than 200 employees as SurveyMonkey seeks to expand its local sales team.
Under Armour. In April, Under Armour moved into Portland’s old Metro YMCA building, significantly accommodating its steady expansion locally. The move solidifies Portland position as a hub for footwear/sportswear design and will likely continue to attract top talent.
Google. In April, Google announced plans for new office space to accommodate expected growth in the future. The location is slated to house roughly 80 additional employees in the near future.
Oregon Angel Fund. The start-up investment company has added key individuals to its leadership team in preparation for 2016. Oregon Angel Fund anticipates that next year will be its strongest year ever investing in Oregon tech start-ups, a good sign of expected growth in the sector.
eBay. In the last 12 months, eBay has announced expansion plans in Portland and dramatically increased its office space. With roughly 200 current local employees, eBay can now accommodate several hundred workers.
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